MEET OUR TEAM

Reverend Michael Avato

Senior Pastor

Mike studied at Florida International University, then launched a career in Construction Management—while also volunteering in youth ministry with the not-at-all-crazy idea of doing it full-time someday. He met his wife, Susan, serving together in youth ministry in Ft. Lauderdale, and they married in 1990 (proving youth group friendships can last).

Soon after, Mike headed to Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, where he caught a growing passion for church planting and an Mdiv. He later earned his D.Min. from Reformed Theological Seminary (RTS) Orlando in 2016—because apparently he enjoys homework.

Risen City Presbyterian Church began the old-fashioned way: Mike and Susan invited people to a Bible study in their living room. In those early years, Mike worked bi-vocationally as a pastor, a recovery counselor, and a licensed Certified General Contractor through his own company—basically, preaching hope and fixing what’s broken all week long. He later became an ordained minister in the Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church (ARPC).

As Senior Pastor, Mike’s aim is simple: to see lives changed by the transforming power of the gospel through authentic preaching and discipleship, and to help Risen City be a safe place to explore the claims of Christ—especially for those who feel far from God. The mission stays clear: Praise the Risen King and Make Disciples.

Mike and Susan live in St. Pete Beach and have two grown sons, Luciano and Nathanael. As a family, they love the beach, boating, fishing, the outdoors, playing guitar, reading, and building things—because relaxing is great, but building something is even better.

ELDERS

Dave Perron

Dave Perron was born and raised in Massachusetts. He married his wife, Dede, in 1979, and in that same year the Lord providentially brought him to saving faith. Together, Dave and Dede have two children and three grandchildren.

Professionally, Dave spent 30 years in the medical device field, serving as a Group Manager in New Products Development. He retired in 2018 after a long career marked by steady leadership and thoughtful work.

Dave and Dede have been members of Risen City Presbyterian Church since 2010. In 2014, Dave was ordained as an elder, and he continues to serve the church with gratitude, faithfulness, and a desire to see Christ honored in the life of the congregation.

Harry Bernet

Harry was born and raised in New York City. He holds a bachelor’s degree from St. John’s University and an M.B.A. from Wheaton College.

In 1983, Harry married his wife, Genny. They now reside on St. Pete Beach and have one son, Chris, and four grandchildren.

After serving in the Army, Harry spent 30 years working in the insurance industry.

Harry is a charter member of Risen City Presbyterian Church and serves as an elected elder. He is grateful for the opportunity to serve the congregation and seeks to encourage others in their faith and devotion to Christ.

Benjamin Boyan

Benjamin Boyan was born and raised in Hammond, Indiana, and has a heart for serving Christ and His church.

He earned a Master of Divinity from Erskine Seminary and a Bachelor of Social Work from the University of South Florida. Benjamin is licensed to preach by the Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church.

Benjamin and his wife, Gina, have been married since 2000 and are blessed with four children—Skyler, Samuel, Benjamin, and Lindy—as well as their nephew, Logan, who is an important part of their family.

As an elder, Benjamin is committed to faithfully teaching God’s Word, encouraging believers in their walk with Christ, and helping foster a welcoming church family where people can grow in faith, fellowship, and service to the Lord.

Bruce Snook

Bruce Snook was born in Syracuse, New York. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in Education from Syracuse University and later completed a degree in Sports Medicine from Westchester University.

Bruce currently works in the physical therapy field, bringing a strong foundation in both education and sports medicine to his work with patients.

In 2025, Bruce was ordained as an elder, a role that reflects his commitment to serving the church with humility and steady leadership.

His favorite Scripture is Proverbs 3:5–6 (ESV): “Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.”